Cuban Cigars guide - Habanos SA and Cubatabaco
Cuban cigars have gained a reputation for being the best cigars in the world. They are highly desired for their exquisite flavour and are made by some of the most skilled cigar manufacturers or “torcedores” in the country. The Torcedores or cigar makers are revered for their skills and are treated as local celebrities in Cuba.
However, as a result of worldwide demand, would-be buyers of cigars should be extremely cautious and ensure that they do not purchase fake Cuban 
cigars. Today, there are many fake Cuban cigar brands circulating the market that are being mass produced and masqueraded as the real thing.
All genuine Cuban cigars are made in Cuba. The two state-run companies, Habanos SA and Cubatabaco, are responsible for the manufacture, regulation and distribution of the cigars. The cigars are packaged in boxes labelled Hecho en Cuba or made in Cuba. A green and white warranty seal will be present on the left side of the cigar box, if the cigars are genuine Cuban cigars. To distinguish counterfeits from the real thing, buyers must take note of the following details:
- The colour of the packaging should never be dull.
- The box and packaging should look neat and undamaged.
- A white sticker that reads “Habanos” must be present on the upper right hand corner of the box.
- A black, blue or green factory code must be stamped on the bottom of the box along with an impressed heat stamp.
It is best to purchase Cuban cigars from reputable tobacconists and shops. These establishments usually allow their customers to touch and smell their wares. Another option would be to purchase cigars from respected mail order companies through their catalogues or online websites. The use of common sense and caution will ensure that connoisseurs everywhere will get to enjoy the real thing.
Extra information:
- Read our article about 10 Reasons to visit Cuba and learn about what the country has to offer.
